Assessing Sustainability of Ecotourism Ventures in Bhutan

Abstract

Mearns’ (2011) methodology for determining the sustainability of ecotourism ventures is
applied to Bhutan by adopting a case study methodology. Three cases were assessed, namely Haa
Valley Homestay, Phobjikha Homestay Network, and the Phajoding Monastery Eco-Camp. The
analysis found, in all three cases, that conservation goals were being achieved, which serves as a
main characteristic that differentiates ecotourism from other forms of tourism. However, these
conservation benefits were not causally linked to the ventures themselves and may be the result
of a combination of other factors such as existing policies and pre-existent community
values/practice. Additionally, there were a number of positive economic impacts, though these were often isolated to managers of each of the ventures and their families. In terms of weaknesses, problems with waste management, cultural impacts, and proper capacity building continue to limit development opportunities. A management-regime comparison was also conducted in which the NGO facilitated venture (Phobjikha) proved most ‘sustainable’ compared to the private (Haa) and government (Phajoding) facilitated ventures. This research provides critical insights and recommendations that will help improve the sustainability of ecotourism in Bhutan.